Azerbaijani authorities detained six suspected members of an illegal online-casino network whose financial turnover exceeded 5 million manats ($2.94 million), according to the Interior Ministry.
The operation was conducted by the ministry’s Main Department for Combating Cybercrime. Investigators believe the group operated from a rented apartment in Baku’s Yasamal district and created virtual cash desks on an online resource prohibited in Azerbaijan.
Phones and Bank Cards Seized
Authorities allege that the network recruited participants through profiles called Jaguar Casino and Rahat Casino, while payments were coordinated through WhatsApp and Telegram.
Police said searches uncovered 55 mobile phones, 177 bank cards, electronic storage devices and other materials. Financial transactions linked to the alleged organization and management of gambling totaled more than 5 million manats.
Criminal proceedings have been opened against the six defendants, who were remanded in custody by a court. The investigation is examining how the network operated and tracing the movement of funds. The allegations remain subject to a final court ruling.
Source: Vesti Baku, citing Azerbaijan’s Interior Ministry.